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- 🚋 Streetcar testing, freeway fixes, and 2026 road reveals?
🚋 Streetcar testing, freeway fixes, and 2026 road reveals?
Plus Disney history, DJ nights, escape rooms, and more ways to make January feel a little less blah!
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How’s everyone holding up in the first full week of the new year?
The hustle might be back, but this week’s picks are about slowing down, switching it up, and soaking it all in. Brunch on rooftops, puzzle your way through an escape room, or sip wine midweek without the markup. You’ve got options.
And if your New Year’s resolution was “have more fun,” well...you’re already crushing it.
In today’s Scoop:
✨ Where Disney Magic Began
🚧 OC’s Roads, Ready to Roll
🌇 Slow Sips, Fast Escapes
🧘♀️ From Yoga Mats to Dance Floors
✨ Ease Into the New Year
✨ Ease Into the New Year
Want to start the year a little slower and a lot higher up? RISE Rooftop Lounge above the Westin is made for deep breaths and long sips, with weekend brunch that invites you to linger (hello Baklava French Toast and a cheerful mimosa cart).
Weeknights feel lighter during Social Hour, when discounted cocktails, shareable bites, and soft DJ beats pair perfectly with sunset views and distant fireworks. Less rush, more glow. Pricey? Sure. Memorable? Absolutely.
🧩 A Fresh Kind of Thrill
🧩 A Fresh Kind of Thrill
If you're looking for a great excuse to try something different, Exit Game OC will have you buzzing! The 13th Basement mixes spooky tension with unexpected laughs, while “Meow, I’m a Cat!” keeps things light and playful for younger crews.
They’re a go-to for birthdays and group gatherings, with private rooms and occasional booking specials shared online. Thoughtful details, clever puzzles, and strong storytelling make every visit feel like an event.
🎬 A Handcrafted Look at Disneyland’s Origins
🎬 A Handcrafted Look at Disneyland’s Origins
The Gist: A new Disney+ documentary, Disneyland Handcrafted, takes viewers inside Walt Disney’s yearlong journey to bring Disneyland to life. Directed by Leslie Iwerks, the film features rare archival footage, original audio recordings, and behind-the-scenes stories from the artists and Imagineers who helped build the park ahead of its 1955 opening.
Why It Matters: For Disney fans and history lovers, it is a rare chance to see how a bold local dream reshaped entertainment worldwide. Streaming begins January 22nd on Disney+ and Disney’s YouTube channel.
🚦 A Big Year Ahead for OC Roads and Transit
🚦 A Big Year Ahead for OC Roads and Transit
The Gist: Orange County is heading into a packed transportation year. The long-awaited OC Streetcar is testing now and aims to open in the second half of 2026, linking Santa Ana to Garden Grove. At the same time, multiple freeway projects are underway or launching soon on the 91, 5, 55, and 57, all focused on easing bottlenecks and improving safety.
Why It Matters: These upgrades affect daily commutes, local streets, and how easily neighbors move across the county.
What’s Next: Expect more testing, public education, and ongoing construction through the year.
Meet Johnny Cash, a young Shepherd mix with sweet, soulful eyes.
This medium sized boy is just around 1 to 3 years old! Johnny is playful, affectionate, and loves belly rubs, gentle companionship, and following his people from room to room. He does well with dogs, is neutered and vaccinated, and is recovering beautifully from surgery. An adoption fee applies.
To learn more about this charming guy...
🥕 Downtown Farmers Market | 435 W Center St Promenade | Anaheim | 1/8 | More
Shop local farms, food makers, and small businesses while enjoying a lively stroll.
🎶 RemiX Live | Downtown Disney | Anaheim | 1/9 | More
Funk, R&B, and feel-good classics that turn into a dance-along night for all ages.
🎨 January Hobby Day | Harmon Ward & Starguard | Anaheim | 1/10 | More
Gaming fun featuring Starguard, with room for multiple tables and open hall!
🎯 Game On! Teen Video Game Tournament | Central Library – Teen Lounge | Anaheim | 1/10 | More
A drop-in Nintendo Switch tournament: snacks, social time, and fun competition.
🌱 Semester Start | North Orange Continuing Education | Anaheim | 1/12 | More
Start fresh with affordable, supportive classes running January through May.
🎶 Night Market & Food + Beer Pairing | Radiant Beer Co. | Anaheim | 1/9 | More
Vinyl DJ sets, local makers, and optional food + beer pairings all under one lively roof.
🛠️ SoCal Craft Championships | ABC SoCal | Anaheim | 1/10 | More
Trade professionals demonstrate craftsmanship in fast-paced, real-world challenges!
🔥 Reggaeton & Hip-Hop Night | HEAT Ultra Lounge | Anaheim | 1/10 | More
Dance to reggaeton and hip-hop hits at this high-energy Hollywood Nightlife takeover.
🧘♀️ Bend & Brew Brewery Yoga | Unsung Brewing Company | Anaheim | 1/11 | More
Flow through an all-levels yoga class, then unwind with a well-earned craft beer!
🧠 Epic Pub Quiz! Free Trivia | The Iron Press | Anaheim | 1/13 | More
Fast-paced, laugh-out-loud trivia with drinks, teams, and bragging rights on the line.
🍇 Wine Down Wednesday | California Vintage Wine Bistro | Anaheim | 1/14 | More
A perfect midweek unwind featuring 30% off every bottle of wine and chef-inspired plates.
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